Having driven past the Sabai Thai Massage Parlour - situated at 268 Main Road in Walmer, countless times, I recently had reason to stop and enter the establishment.

Rose, the Sabai’s new owner, welcomed me as if she had known me for years, making me feel at ease. She then proceeded to show me all three of her treatment rooms and, being the first client of the day, I was able to choose which room I preferred.

Every room had two comfortable treatment beds with pretty runners across them, towels, a pair of clean treatment pants and very exotic Thai themed décor. I chose Rose’s personal favourite which is located furthest away from the reception area.

After putting on my treatment pants, I lay on the bed and a few moments later, Rose entered the room with a little carrier basket which held a candle underneath a bowl of warm water and a little tub of massage cream. She knelt down at the base of the bed and began the massage.

My treatment took slightly longer than planned because we enjoyed a good conversation and a few laughs. Throughout, Rose did not lose concentration on what she was doing - my body had never been so soothingly rubbed and stroked.

Rose started with my feet and worked her way up my legs and thighs before working my arms and back. While her strokes were generally gentle, I also felt occasional tingling – sweet pain! I could feel the knots leaving my body.

Afterwards, Rose asked me to sit up. She then stretched my body into place by pulling my arms backwards and pushing my back against her knees, it was amazing.

My favourite part of the treatment was when Rose massaged my hands – I did not know that tension can also build up in your hands. Rose also pointed out that your body’s left side should always be massaged first as that is where your heart, however, it is always the right side where tension is felt.

I also learnt from her that the Thai massage technique, with over 300 methods, is very different from other forms of massage in that it goes deeper while focusing on all pressure points.

Having enjoyed every second of my massage, I am hope to return to Sabai Thai Massage Parlour to experience a completely different procedure in the near future.

To book your session at Sabai Thai Massage Parlour, visit 268 Main Road Walmer, between 13th and 14th Avenue in Port Elizabeth or by call: 041 581 0608.